Well… a year ago today I was laying in a hospital bed after having my RNY gastric bypass. I didn’t know what was going to come. I was very well informed about the surgery, the expectations, what could go wrong and how everything was supposed to happen but I had NO idea how it would actually affect me, how it would really change my world. A year later, I am the same person, however I have such a better outlook on life and how I live it. Spending a girls day shopping is now one of my favorite things, I used to absolutely dread shopping especially with my friends who wanted to go to American Eagle or Charlotte Russe- when we walked in I would feel the employees stare with that “does she actually think anything in here will fit her fat ass” look.  Now- im free, I can shop wherever I want, usually fitting into a size MEDIUM. A year ago I never, even in my wildest thoughts, would have believed I would be wearing a medium in a “regular girl store”. When my boyfriend and I go out, im proud to be his and I don’t feel like everyone is wondering what hes doing with ME. My self esteem has never been better and it has changed my relationships with everyone in my life. Having this surgery saved my life. Not only health wise, but personally. I was in such a deep depression and I didn’t even realize it. I had practically become a hermit and it was not healthy. I am loving life and couldn’t imagine being happier with my decision. Basically I am finally HAPPY, CONFIDENT, and PROUD of who I am, and I feel like the luckiest girl in the world that I was granted this amazing opportunity. Thank you to everyone who has been there for me through this journey- yall are so helpful and kind, I couldn’t ask for a better group of supportive people. Good luck to anyone just starting their story. I can only hope that your experience will be as good as mine has been thus far. :)